As the Haitian music industry celebrates the 50th anniversary of Konpa, key figures in the scene have shared their insights and concerns about the current state and future of this culturally significant genre. Their reflections highlight both pride in their musical heritage and a unanimous call for substantial changes within the industry.
Ritchie from Zenglen: “Konpa is the only thing we have to offer, but the industry needs a lot of fixing,” states Ritchie, emphasizing the urgent need for development. He notes that not much has changed in the last decade and stresses the necessity for a transformation in how the business operates to ensure the genre’s survival and growth.
Shedley of Djazz la: Shedley offers a more critical perspective on the current trends in Konpa music. “The music that I hear nowadays is total chaos,” he comments, pointing out the ease with which anyone can claim to be an artist. He reminisces about the quality of legendary bands like Frere Dejean and Tropicana, which he feels set a standard that has since declined. According to Shedley, this drop in quality isn’t unique to Haiti but is a global issue affecting even the American music industry.
Arly of Nu Look: For Arly, Konpa Direk is more than music; it is a beloved woman, an integral part of Haitian culture that has faced its share of struggles. “Konpa suffered a lot over the years, yet it remains our unique identifier wherever we go,” he explains. Arly calls for unity among musicians to combat issues like bootlegging and encourages fans to support a broader range of artists, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.
Jensen of Phantoms: Jensen addresses structural problems within the industry. “The lack of discipline is due to the fact we have no foundation,” he asserts. He advocates for establishing a unified set of rules and a solid foundation that all stakeholders in the industry can adhere to, which he believes is essential for creating lasting change and ensuring the genre’s integrity.
These artists’ reflections during the 50th anniversary of Konpa highlight a mix of nostalgia for the past and a critical eye towards the future. Their collective voices underscore a crucial turning point for Konpa music, calling for actionable steps to preserve its rich heritage and ensure its sustainability in a rapidly changing musical landscape.
